h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I was devastated to hear about the sad passing away of this genius.

I recognised the links between Jake and his fellow European folk singers - Brassens and de Andre as my knowledge of these singers grew.
As a 'Northerner' I've always had fond memories of his songs and music.
I'd love to pass on sympathy to his family

Audrey Sheen
(fellow linguist and folk singer)

Hi,

I was told of Jake's death only a few days ago - learnt it from an English friend - I am French and live in the Savoie region. I came across Jake in 1979; I was over in England for a year and the day I saw a record with Brother Gorilla on it. As I was - and still am - a Brassens addict I made the connection, bought the record and two more in that same week. Over the years I have managed to get hold of virtually all of Jake's LP, mainly through second hand shops and web sites. I listen to his songs very regularly. I never managed to hear Le Cygne Noir (Black Swan). Even though I receive all the English TV Channels at home, I was away at the time of Jake's death and just wondered whether any special tribute had been broadcast. I never saw Jake on stage anywhere; I once missed him by two days in 1988 - was staying in Sheffield with wome friends then. I wondered whether any videos would be available. I did manage to buy a video through Netsounds, but it was a very low quality home recording and I did get the feeling I had been slightly ripped off. Does anyone know if any of the record company plan to release more material on CD - I seem to have got the ONE cd available in shops.
I would have like to see the man perform, and perhaps meet him. I did send a letter some 15 years ago, but EMI must ahve forgotten to forward it. Or perhaps Jake was too busy to reply. Anyway, this was just a quick note to say that I truly Jake was not anybody in the music world and I wish the BBC could programme a special tribute to him. I was not around when he used to appear on the telly on a regular basis. Too bad.
Best regards,
Jean-Pierre

Sadly I've only just heard about Jakes death, I heard about it on Stewart Marcone's show on Saturday while I was driving back to London, I was shocked to say the least. Many of his songs made me smile and some made me sad, but were all brilliantly written.
His style was original and very English. I saw him once only at the Queens Theatre in Hornchurch back in the 70's, he was very nervous, but fantastic. He seemed to be uch a modest chap, very rare these days, a real gem, I shall miss him very much. My regards to his family.
Jonathan Madden

Dreadful news; I met him when I helped set up a show in Cyprus for him (which help consisted of finding him a stool to sit on and buying him a drink, and giving him a lift to his hotel afterwards). Modest, extremely capable on his guitar, very very likable man.

Hi folks, yes, very sad news indeed. Just in case you hadn't heard, most information can be found at a dot com site by the name of jakethackray. There is now a second CD out, available in the shops, and other stuff available, with a good community at this other place.
May see you there.
Philreckless

Nearly a year late I find out about Jakes unfortunate death. Must come of living miles from civilisation, and like Jake being happy with my own company. Well, good luck to you mate; guess the Rooster Juice finally ran out. Rob